Originally Posted by
LV2TNDM
No, this Wheelsmith advice was in print, but I cannot remember the source. It was while I was managing an LBS and building up my first tandem. We were a Wheelsmith dealer, so it may have been a Wheelsmith industry newsletter. Sorry I can't provide the source, but it was 25 years ago! And I agree with you about high tensions, which is why I advised not dropping below 90kgf on his wheel. And I, too, have argued vigorously for butted spokes for years, rebutting the "buy thicker spokes for a stronger wheel!" assertions I hear all the time.
That said, thanks for the additional input.
The wheel is working good for now at 110 kgf +/- 15%. The spoke line is good with DT prohead nipples. I would like to poise at higher tension, but I am concerned that the spokes might then eventually pull through the rim. Perhaps a reasonable compromise for a rim without eyelets, time will tell.